Michael Jackson’s legacy continues on through a new movie, “Michael,” released on April 24. It was created to tell his story and show how much of an influence he had on this world.
Jackson wasn’t just a singer; he was an entertainer. Known as the King of Pop, he transformed music, dance, and entertainment on a global scale, from record breaking albums to iconic performances that still impact some people today.
Michael’s nephew, Jaafar Jackson, stars in the movie as the iconic performer. He worked for years leading up to this movie to make sure he executed this role to its full potential.
Jaafar Jackson stated, “To be able to live in those shoes and feel some of what he was feeling, see life through fresh eyes the way Michael did – it was important to feel all those things so I could come from a place of truth, rather than trying to imitate or copy the shape of moves. I want to learn the meaning behind the moves, the essence of it.”
Some viewers who are very informed about Michael and his life left the movie in hopes of seeing more of his story and lifetime.
Senior Jaryn Fox stated, “The Michael movie was one of my favorite experiences watching a movie. The only issue I had was that, because he is so iconic there’s a lot of moments in his life and career that were skipped. They jumped from The Jackson’s era, to his BAD era in only two hours. It leaves you wishing for more when you know so much about him.”
So many others also thought that there were moments left out which led the producers to announce a second movie that is said to be released in 2027.
Growing up, I know a lot about Michael Jackson because of my dad (Joe Cala). He played his music for me all the time growing up which turned me into a huge fan of Michael.
Joe Cala explained, “Michael Jackson had a tremendous impact on my childhood. His songs, music videos, and concerts were a part of everything during that time. He was larger than life to so many people and the movie portrayed that so well.”
Michael Jackson was set apart from a lot of other artists. He used his music to send messages to our society. Songs such as Man in the Mirror, They Don’t Really Care About Us, and Heal the World demonstrates that he wasn’t always just focused on entertainment but also about common issues happening in the world that are normalized.
Freshman Hannah Tieri, voiced, “I love everything about Jackson’s music. He was so unique and different compared to others.”
In the end, Michael Jackson showed us what’s possible when talent meets vision and endless dedication. Throughout everything that he dealt with in his life, he gave the world something unforgettable-music that made us feel, move, and believe. Although his life was cut short in June of 2009, he is always remembered, and generations will continue on, knowing the name, Michael Jackson.
